Wellbeing Design—it’s not just for the spa.
When you think about wellbeing design, what comes to mind? Maybe you think of self-care practices like meditation, mindfulness, and yoga. Or environments that focus on relaxation like spas and wellness centers. I want to challenge us to think outside of the traditional expectations of wellbeing design and invite it into other areas of our lives. Wellbeing design has the ability to transform, heal, and connects us, and here are five reasons why we should be using it more in the home and beyond.
1. Wellbeing design fosters a sense of comfort and joy through sustainable, natural materials
Natural materials like wood, stone, bamboo, or wool help bring the outdoors inside. This connection to nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall wellbeing. People often feel more comfortable and relaxed when surrounded by natural elements, creating a calming environment that promotes joy and peace. In addition, sustainable materials often have unique, organic patterns and color variations that bring character and beauty to a space. The aesthetic appeal of natural materials creates a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere, which can lift one's mood and evoke a sense of calm joy. The beauty and simplicity of nature's imperfections encourage mindfulness and appreciation for the present moment. The use of sustainable materials also aligns with values related to environmental consciousness and responsibility, which can contribute to a sense of joy and fulfillment, knowing that the design choices made for comfort are also supporting the planet. Many people feel a deeper sense of happiness when they know their surroundings reflect their ethical values.
2. Wellbeing design encourages physical activity through layout and sequence of spaces
Wellbeing design often prioritizes open, flexible spaces that invite movement. Design choices that nudge people to move more include things like creating inviting, walkable paths between rooms, encouraging stairs over elevators, or designing spaces that require walking from one area to another. For example, in office designs, having collaborative spaces spread across a floor can encourage employees to walk, move, and stretch. Also, spaces in corporate settings might include multi-purpose rooms or areas that can easily be rearranged for different activities, encouraging people to engage in physical activities such as yoga, stretching, or even dancing. Similarly, in homes, making spaces more interconnected or designing a layout that encourages movement can promote more spontaneous physical activity.
3. Wellbeing design creates functional aesthetic spaces of healing and restoration through color, art, and lighting
Wellbeing design creates functional aesthetic spaces of healing and restoration by thoughtfully integrating color, art, and lighting into the environment. These elements play a significant role in influencing mood, emotions, and overall mental and physical health. By using these design tools strategically, designing for wellbeing helps foster a sense of calm, balance, and comfort. Wellbeing design also allows for personalization of spaces, which can further enhance the healing process. Allowing individuals to choose or contribute to the art, color schemes, and lighting in their space gives them a sense of control and ownership. Personal touches like favorite colors, meaningful artwork, or lighting preferences make a space feel more supportive and emotionally nourishing.
4. Supports mental health by providing emotional safety and refuge
A sense of safety is essential for mental health. Wellbeing design prioritizes creating spaces that feel secure, both physically and emotionally and often incorporates spaces that function as personal sanctuaries or refuges. These spaces are designed to be quiet, peaceful, and free of distractions, offering a retreat from the pressures of daily life. For example, bedrooms, meditation rooms, or cozy reading nooks with soft lighting, comfortable furniture, and calming colors create an environment where individuals can relax, recharge, and find respite from stress. Features like well-lit entryways, secure outdoor spaces, and private areas allow individuals to feel safe from external threats. When people feel safe in their surroundings, they are more likely to experience a sense of calm and relaxation, which supports mental wellbeing.
5. Wellbeing design promotes accessibility, inclusivity, and social connection through shared spaces
Wellbeing design emphasizes social interaction by creating environments that encourage people to come together and utilizes universal design principles, ensuring spaces are accessible for everyone, including those with disabilities. Features that foster social connections include:
Communal kitchens and dining areas: Spaces where people can share meals, cook together, and socialize, fostering a sense of community and cooperation.
Lounge areas and seating arrangements: Comfortable seating that encourages group conversations and informal socializing. Arrangements like circular seating or groupings of sofas promote inclusive interactions.
Outdoor spaces: Gardens, patios, and shared green spaces provide opportunities for people to gather, relax, and engage in casual conversation or group activities.
Collaborative workspaces: In work environments or community hubs, shared workspaces encourage collaboration and interaction, helping break down social and professional barriers.